El Sistema Japan Selected for Commons Impact Fund Donation Program

El Sistema Japan, an organization based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has been honored as the recipient of the third donation round from the "Commons Impact Fund ~ Co-Creation ~" initiative run by Commons Investment Corporation. They received a generous contribution of 712,000 yen, aimed at supporting social issue resolution programs.

The "Commons Impact Fund" was initiated in 2023 by Commons Investment. This program utilizes a portion of the fund's trust fees to support nonprofit organizations tackling social challenges through donations. The theme for this third round focused on "Parents and Children Connected to Well-being." Following discussions by the selection committee, El Sistema Japan was chosen from among three organizations nominated by an internal committee at Commons Investment.

Among the recommendations for El Sistema Japan, several individuals expressed the beliefs that music should be an accessible activity for everyone, regardless of any disabilities. They resonated with the core philosophy of the main investor of the Commons Impact Fund, Kanpo Life Insurance, which promotes the idea that they are always there to support every life.

The donation ceremony took place at El Sistema Japan’s office on October 6, where members of Commons Investment and Kanpo Life attended to formally present the funds.

Commentary from El Sistema Japan

El Sistema Japan’s Executive Director, Mr. Minoru Kikukawa, expressed his gratitude for being a finalist in the 14th SEEDCap initiative, acknowledging the unwavering support from the staff at Commons Investment. He noted that their current dialogue stemmed from prior introductions made by the same staff members who supported them during the SEEDCap process. Mr. Kikukawa expressed hope for continued meaningful connections with supporters in the future.

He also highlighted the significance of the donation, linking it to their concept of "co-creation" that is central to their orchestral and choral programs. He hopes that employees at Kanpo Life, who share a love for music, might engage in future performances or volunteering opportunities with El Sistema Japan.

The donation will be utilized responsibly to cover fees for music educators and transportation costs for volunteers with rich experiences in music and welfare. Additionally, it will assist in compensating the coordinators who support their activities in various ways. They aim to continue enriching children’s musical activities,

El Sistema Japan has significantly grown since its inception in 2012, following the East Japan earthquake. It initially sought to help children regain confidence and dignity through musical experiences. The program has expanded its reach to various regions, including Fukushima, Iwate, Nagano, Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. As of April 2023, they have collaborated with the volunteer organization, “String Ribon,” to implement violin classes at children's homes.

The organization promotes inclusivity in music education, ensuring that all children, regardless of family circumstances, can experience music. They cherish the learning created through collaborative orchestras and choirs, aiming to provide children with critical self-expression opportunities and establish a vital space that connects people through music.

El Sistema Japan envisions a symbiotic society where everyone can express creativity freely. Their efforts have been recognized, as they were awarded the 2022 Japan Foundation Global Citizens Award.

For further details on this initiative, you can visit the official websites of Commons Investment and Kanpo Life for their respective press releases regarding this donation.

Organization Overview

- Name: El Sistema Japan
- Location: 3F Daieido 2nd Bldg, 3-24 Kanda Ogawacho, Chiyoda, Tokyo, 101-0052
- Director: Minoru Kikukawa
- Founded: March 2012
- Website: El Sistema Japan

El Sistema started in 1975 in Venezuela to address issues related to poverty and security, focusing on protecting children through music education. Today, this principle is practiced in over 70 countries, including Japan, where it has evolved to impact children's lives positively.